Most homeowners don’t understand why they should never use Drano to clear a clogged drain. It’s been on grocery store shelves since 1923, when it came out in a crystal form. It sounds like the perfect product to unclog a sink or tub that won’t drain. But, as with many quick fixes, there can be a price to pay. Keep reading for valuable information before you run to the grocery store to buy Drano.
DIY Ways To Unclog Drains
If you are a person that regularly tackles DIY projects, you have a few options before calling the professionals. If you already have one in your garage, you can try your hand at a plumbing snake. A plunger is another option for pushing the debris clogging your drain through the system. If the same drain continues to have problems, it’s time to call a licensed plumbing contractor.
For slow-moving drains, pour a generous amount of baking soda in the drain after it’s clear of the water. Follow that with white wine vinegar, and it will fizz up. After roughly 15 to 20 minutes, run piping hot water, and you’ll know if it worked successfully. Although Drano is tempting, it’s not in your plumbing’s best interest, regardless of if you have PVC or metal plumbing.
Why Not Use Drano
People have used Drano for years to clear nasty clogs. The product dissolves things. If it splashes onto your skin, wash it off as quickly as possible. The fumes aren’t good for your lungs either. A splash in your eye will require an Emergency Room visit to ensure the eye is adequately flushed. Pour water, or even ice tea if it’s sitting right there, in your eye immediately before going to the hospital. It’s a toxic and dangerous chemical.
Now that we’ve covered physical bodily harm, let’s move on to the plumbing. Although using Drano may temporarily take care of the issue, your pipes can suffer long-term damage. As it’s breaking down the clog, Drano can dissolve the glue that holds the pipes together. That quick fix may lead to expensive plumbing repairs in the future. It’s just not worth it.
What Is Drano Made Of?
Drano consists of lye, aluminum, bleach, salt, and sodium nitrate. Chemical reactions occur concurrently and can be overwhelming for residential pipes and drains. Lye breaks down all physical matter. The aluminum reacts with the lye causing extremely high temperatures to decompose the clogged substance quickly. As the clog breaks down, it allows room for hot water to clear the pipe.
The chemicals combined are so corrosive that they can crack toilet bowls, melt PVC pipes, or the binding glue. And, under no circumstances should you combine Drano with other cleaners. Highly toxic fumes or even an explosion can occur. The label that says, “Keep out of reach of children,” is no joke.
Drains that aren’t working correctly are frustrating and disruptive. If you value your plumbing and want it to stay in top shape, never use Drano. Professional assistance can save you time, money, and headaches. Call Abend Services for all your plumbing needs!
